At the Pond
by David Elliott ( Author), Amy Schimler-Safford (Illustrations)

4 out of 5 stars

There is a flurry of activity at the pond. In the morning, the red-winged blackbird sings to waken the inhabitants of the pond. Under the water, fish, frogs, turtles, and pollywogs dart about. Ducks and geese, beavers and muskrats swim around the pond as well. Even the insects have important business as dragonflies, water striders, and fireflies flit about. There is always something interesting to see at the pond!

I love the writing style! I found it very interesting that this book uses really big words for a children’s picture book. I wish it had a glossary at the back, so that children could look up the words and expand their vocabulary, but I guess a dictionary will do as well. I really love books that use big words for kids, and they can learn something new!

“The pond’s nobility, the great blue heron wades in the shallows with ancestral dignity both majestic and absurd. …” What a beautiful line of writing! It’s way beyond a young kid’s understanding, but I think it is worthwhile for kids to read something a little beyond them so that they can learn something so beautifully expressive.

I loved the beautiful illustrations in this book! The art style is really attractive and it gave me a calm feeling. The colors are soothing somehow. The art really captures the beauty of nature!

There is an entire page devoted to the water snake. Ew. I skipped that page. I just can’t handle it. Freaks me out!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.